Heart of London jointly commissioned The Retail Group to undertake a Street Trading review of kiosk retailers in the area and make recommendations to help improve the streetscape and customer experience.

The study identified suitable locations within the study area, as well as the specific products that should be sold at each. The study also provided a range of alternative examples of kiosk design, based on successful examples elsewhere in the world.

Consumers in the study area were made up mostly of day trip shoppers, workers, domestic and international tourists.  They told us they wanted to buy quality products from attractive and professional looking kiosks, and goods that are relevant to their needs during that particular shopping trip.  They wanted to buy from kiosks that were attractive, convenient, easy to use and appropriate for the area.

The outcome of the study is a Masterplan, which identifies that kiosks should:

• look professional and reputable
• not interfere with the key footfall routes,fire exits, escape routes and shop windows
• add to the visual amenity of the area
• be right for the micro location
• be right for local customer demand

It is clear that a one size and design fits all approach is inappropriate for the study area.  The Masterplan therefore contains the flexibility for kiosks to be trading as one of three models.  It states that kiosks should be semi permanent structures, made out of modern contemporary materials, have quality lighting and relevant promotional signage.

In total the Masterplan identifies a core of at least 43 kiosks, trading in 18 locations (down from 42).  Only those products appropriate to the micro location will be allowed.

The Masterplan identifies a clear and successful future for kiosk retailing in the study area, selling quality products that customers want to buy, in locations that are suitable and from stalls that are fit for purpose.